The Perfect Cheese Pairing For Lebanon Bologna

Lebanon bologna is a type of cured meat, specifically a beef-based sausage that is cured and smoked. It is a unique variety of bologna that is native to the Central PA area, specifically Lebanon County, and was brought over by German immigrants in the mid-1700s to early 1800s. Lebanon bologna is often enjoyed in sandwiches or appetizers, and its flavour is often compared to salami. So, what are the best cheeses to pair with Lebanon bologna?

Lebanon Bologna and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Lebanon Bologna, a type of cured meat, is a special type of beef-based sausage that is cured and smoked. It is unique to the Central PA area and was brought to the region by German immigrants, or the PA Dutch, in the mid-1700s to early 1800s.

Ingredients:

• Lebanon bologna
• Cream cheese
• Cucumber (optional)

Steps:

Slice the bologna into thin strips. If you want to add a cucumber, peel and slice it into rounds. Spread a layer of cream cheese onto the bologna or cucumber. Place the bologna on top of the cream cheese and roll it up. If using cucumber, place a few strips of bologna on top of the cream cheese.

For a fancier presentation, form the cream cheese into a log, wrap it in wax paper, and chill it in the fridge until it hardens. This makes it easier to cut and place on top of cucumber slices.

The amounts of cream cheese and bologna used are a matter of personal preference. You can also add other ingredients such as green chillies or horseradish to the cream cheese for an extra kick.

Cooper Cheese Lebanon Bologna Sandwich

The Cooper Cheese Lebanon Bologna Sandwich is a flavourful powerhouse of nostalgic goodness. The sandwich combines two Pennsylvania Dutch favourites: Lebanon bologna and Cooper® cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of marbled rye bread
• 5 slices of Lebanon bologna
• 3 slices of Cooper® Sharp White, Yellow, or Black Pepper cheese
• Green leaf lettuce
• Tomato
• Red onion
• Brown mustard
• Mayo
• Horseradish

Instructions

• Prepare the sauce by combining brown mustard, mayo, and horseradish to taste.
• On a flat surface, lay out one slice of bread.
• Add a layer of green leaf lettuce, followed by tomato and red onion.
• Fold each slice of Lebanon bologna and lay them onto the sandwich.
• Add 3 slices of Cooper® cheese.
• Spread the mustard sauce onto the remaining slice of bread and place it on top of the sandwich.

For a spicy kick, try using Cooper® Sharp Black Pepper cheese.

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic, comforting dish, and this Cooper Cheese Lebanon Bologna Sandwich is a unique take on the traditional grilled cheese. It's a hearty and satisfying option for lunch or dinner, offering a blend of textures and flavours that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

The key ingredient, Lebanon bologna, has a rich history dating back to the late 1700s when Pennsylvania Dutch settlers first produced it. This cured and smoked beef sausage has a tangy, sweet, or savoury taste that pairs wonderfully with the sharpness of Cooper® cheese. The combination of these two iconic flavours creates a sandwich that's not just delicious but also reminiscent of home for many.

Lebanon Bologna and Horseradish

Lebanon bologna is a type of cured and smoked beef sausage that originated in Pennsylvania Dutch country in the late 1700s. It has a tangy, semi-dry texture and a unique flavour that is often compared to salami. Lebanon bologna is a versatile ingredient that can be used in sandwiches, appetizers, or salads. When it comes to cheese, there are several options that pair well with Lebanon bologna, including:

Cooper® Cheese

Cooper® Cheese, a traditional cheese in Pennsylvania since 1893, pairs wonderfully with Lebanon bologna. A sandwich made with these two ingredients, along with a sauce made from brown mustard, mayo, and horseradish, is a delicious combination.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a popular choice to pair with Lebanon bologna, especially as an appetizer or snack. The cream cheese can be spread on cucumber slices, with the bologna placed on top, or the bologna can be spread with cream cheese and rolled up. This combination is a favourite in Pennsylvania Dutch country and is often served as a simple yet delicious hors d'oeuvre.

Muenster Cheese

Muenster cheese is another option that goes well with Lebanon bologna. This mild, gooey cheese can be melted on top of a sandwich with bologna, spicy mustard, and fresh tomatoes for a classic and tasty combination.

Cheddar Cheese

When creating a charcuterie board, Lebanon bologna can be a great addition, pairing well with aged cheeses like cheddar. The strong flavour of the bologna can stand up to the sharpness of the cheddar, and the addition of fresh fruit like grapes or strawberries can help offset the tangy flavour of the meat.

Lebanon Bologna with Spicy Mustard

Lebanon bologna is a type of cured, smoked beef sausage that originated in Pennsylvania in the late 1700s. It has a tangy, semi-dry texture and a unique flavour that is often compared to salami. It is a popular sandwich ingredient, and pairs well with a variety of cheeses.

When paired with spicy mustard, Lebanon bologna creates a bold and flavourful combination. The heat from the mustard adds a nice kick to the bologna, enhancing its tangy notes. For a classic sandwich, layer slices of Lebanon bologna with spicy mustard on sourdough, rye, or whole wheat bread. You can also add fresh tomatoes and melt some Muenster cheese on top for a gooey, indulgent bite.

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, try a Lebanon bologna roll-up. Spread a layer of cream cheese and spicy mustard on a slice of Lebanon bologna, then roll it up and enjoy. This simple appetizer is a fun and tasty way to enjoy the bold flavours of the bologna and mustard.

For a heartier meal, consider a Buckeye Breakfast Sandwich. Stack slices of Lebanon bologna with a fried egg and a slathering of spicy mustard on your favourite bread. The mustard adds a nice kick to the sandwich, complementing the savoury bologna and runny egg yolk.

You can also incorporate Lebanon bologna into a charcuterie board. Arrange slices of the bologna with aged cheeses like cheddar, or milder options like farmer's cheese or Muenster. Don't forget to include a side of spicy mustard for dipping the bologna, adding a nice contrast to its tangy flavour.

The versatility of Lebanon bologna makes it a great ingredient to experiment with. Whether in a sandwich, roll-up, or as part of a charcuterie spread, the combination of Lebanon bologna and spicy mustard is a match made in heaven for those who enjoy bold, tangy flavours.

Lebanon Bologna with Aged Cheeses

Lebanon bologna is a type of cured meat, specifically a beef-based sausage that is cured and smoked. It has a unique flavour and is often compared to salami in taste and texture. It is tangy, semi-dry sausage with a sharp, strong flavour and smoky notes. Lebanon bologna is typically enjoyed in sandwiches or appetizers.

When it comes to cheese pairings, Lebanon bologna goes well with a variety of cheeses, especially aged cheeses. Here are some specific examples and serving suggestions:

Cheddar Cheese

Aged cheddar cheese is a perfect match for Lebanon bologna. The sharpness of the cheese complements the tangy, smoky flavour of the meat. When creating a charcuterie board, include aged cheddar and Lebanon bologna as a delicious combination. Add some fresh fruit, such as grapes or strawberries, to offset the tanginess and freshen up the board. Don't forget to include a spicy or sweet mustard on the side for dipping.

Cooper® Cheese

Cooper® Cheese, a traditional favourite in Pennsylvania, is an excellent pairing with Lebanon bologna. For a classic sandwich, stack slices of Lebanon bologna with Cooper® Sharp White, Yellow, or Black Pepper cheese. Add some green leaf lettuce, tomato, and red onion, along with a spread made from brown mustard, mayo, and horseradish to taste. The combination of flavours and textures will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Muenster Cheese

Muenster cheese, a mild and creamy cheese, also pairs well with Lebanon bologna. For a tasty sandwich, combine the tangy bologna with sourdough bread, spicy mustard, fresh tomatoes, and melted Muenster cheese. The creaminess of the cheese will balance out the tanginess of the meat, creating a delightful contrast.

Cream Cheese

For a simpler yet delicious pairing, consider cream cheese. Many locals enjoy rolling up slices of Lebanon bologna with a generous amount of cream cheese. This combination can be served as a quick snack or an easy appetizer. For a fancier presentation, add some cucumber slices to the mix. Form the cream cheese into a log, chill it, and then slice it to place on top of the cucumber slices, along with thin strips of Lebanon bologna.

These suggestions showcase the versatility of Lebanon bologna when paired with aged cheeses. Each combination offers a unique flavour profile and texture, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions